Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls with Strawberry Filling Recipe

If you’re ready to indulge in a truly irresistible treat, let me introduce you to the Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls with Strawberry Filling Recipe. These cinnamon rolls are bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, swirled delightfully through a soft, fluffy dough, and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness. It’s the perfect combination of classic comfort and fruity freshness that feels like a warm hug with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, these strawberry and cream cinnamon rolls will quickly become your new favorite go-to dessert or breakfast delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you—the magic here is in how simple, everyday ingredients come together to create something spectacular. Every component from the flour for structure to the fresh strawberries for that vibrant pop plays a key role in delivering the perfect balance of soft, sweet, and tangy flavors and textures.

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides a soft, elastic base for the dough.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to the dough.
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast: Essential for the dough to rise and get fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dough.
• ½ cup warm milk (110°F/43°C): Activates the yeast and moistens the dough.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
• 2 large eggs: Help give structure and richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the dough flavor.
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped: The star ingredient for the vibrant filling.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the strawberry filling perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the strawberry filling to a jam-like consistency.
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the filling with subtle warmth.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened: For the cinnamon sugar layer that melts into the dough.
• ¼ cup brown sugar: Gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the filling.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The classic cinnamon flavor that cinnamon rolls are known for.
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: For the rich, tangy glaze.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the glaze.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds vanilla notes to the cream cheese glaze.
• 2 tablespoons milk (or more for desired consistency): Adjusts the glaze thickness perfectly.

How to Make Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls with Strawberry Filling Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by waking up the yeast with warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast in a large bowl until it gets frothy—this tells you it’s alive and ready to work its magic! Then, add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mix. Slowly incorporate your flour and salt, turning it into a soft dough. Knead it on a floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, which helps create those signature fluffy rolls.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Once kneaded, pop the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and set it aside in a warm spot. Watching it double in size is like witnessing a tasty transformation—this usually takes about an hour. This rise is what makes your rolls so light and airy.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

While the dough rests, combine fresh chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla in a small saucepan. Cook it over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want the mixture thick and jam-like, which concentrates that fresh berry flavor and makes it easy to spread without soaking your dough.

Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar

Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. This simple blend is what gives cinnamon rolls their irresistible sugary warmth, playing beautifully with the strawberry sweetness.

Step 5: Assemble the Rolls

When your dough has doubled, punch it down and roll it out to a nice large rectangle—approximately 12 by 18 inches. Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the dough, then layer on your cooled strawberry filling. This double-layer of flavor is what really sets this recipe apart, promising a bite that’s bursting with sweet and spicy goodness.

Step 6: Roll and Cut

Roll the dough tightly from one long edge into a log. With a sharp knife, slice it into 12 even pieces. Place these spiraled beauties into a greased 9 by 13-inch baking dish, so they have room to puff up as they bake.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover your rolls again with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise is the ticket to that soft, pillow-like texture you crave in your cinnamon rolls.

Step 8: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 25 to 30 minutes, until they turn golden brown and smell absolutely heavenly. This step seals in all those flavors and textures perfectly.

Step 9: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

While those rolls are baking, whip together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until creamy and smooth. Adjust the milk to get your ideal glaze consistency, whether you want a drizzle or a more generous coating.

Step 10: Glaze the Rolls

When the cinnamon rolls come out of the oven, give them 5 to 10 minutes to cool slightly. Then generously drizzle your luscious cream cheese glaze all over the warm rolls. This finishing touch melts just enough into the warm rolls to bring everything together wonderfully.

How to Serve Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls with Strawberry Filling Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries sliced and gently scattered on top add a burst of color and freshness that makes these cinnamon rolls even more irresistible. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also create a lovely visual contrast and extra sweetness that elevates your presentation.

Side Dishes

Pairing these strawberry and cream cinnamon rolls with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a tall glass of cold milk makes for an unbeatable combo. If you want to keep things brunch-style, fresh fruit salad or yogurt with granola offer a refreshing balance to the rolls’ rich sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

You can arrange the rolls in individual ramekins or mini muffin tins for personalized servings that are perfect for parties. Alternatively, serving them warm on a rustic wooden board with extra glaze and strawberry slices invites your guests to dive in family-style, enhancing that cozy, homey vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which might be unlikely!), store your cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The rolls will stay soft, and you can refresh them with a quick warm-up before enjoying.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully. After baking and glazing, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven before serving.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the rolls in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, covering loosely with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individually for about 20 seconds for a quicker fix—just be careful not to overheat and dry them out!

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid extra liquid in your filling. Cooking them a bit longer may be necessary to achieve the right thickness.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative. For the cream cheese glaze, look for vegan cream cheese options or make a simple powdered sugar glaze instead.

How long do these cinnamon rolls stay fresh?

They’re best enjoyed within 2 days when stored at room temperature in an airtight container. After that, their freshness starts to decline, but freezing is a great option for longer storage.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise once, then refrigerate it overnight. The next day, roll out the dough, assemble the rolls, and proceed with the second rise before baking.

What if I don’t have cornstarch for the filling?

You can substitute it with an equal amount of arrowroot powder or tapioca starch. These will thicken the filling just as well without altering the flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making and sharing the Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls with Strawberry Filling Recipe. It’s a heartwarming twist on a classic favorite that brightens up any morning or afternoon with its tender dough, sweet cinnamon, and luscious strawberry filling all wrapped up in a creamy glaze. I can’t encourage you enough to give this recipe a try—you’re not just baking rolls, you’re creating moments of joy with every bite!

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